Pskov region

Pskov

Porkhov

Izborsk

Snetogorsky Monastery

Svyatogorsky monastery

Pechora Monastery

Trigorskoye

Petrovskoe

Mikhailovskoye

Heroic history of Pskov
is made of the chronicles of Russian northwest frontier posts. Many attacks
of the hostile neighbours of Russia were repulsed by cityfortresses such as
Gdov, Old Izborsk, Porkhov, Ostrov and the others. The fortress in Izborsk
is the first and most amazing monument of Russian defensive architecture. Being
placed on the mountain called Zheraviya (Crane's mountain) it looks like a part
of the landscape. Its strong 4meter thick monumental walls «growing» out of
the mountain impress everyone. One of the fortress towers called Lukovka (Onion)
was a donjon the last shelter in case of capturing the fortress by enemies.
Now it is used for sightseeing.

Observation from the top of the tower provides a wonderful panoramic view
of the valley and the Lake Gorodnitcheskoye.

Near to the fortress entrance is situated St. Nicolas Cathedral of the 14th
century with the bell tower. In the eastern wall of the fortress, behind the
Cathedral, remained the hidingplace. It is an inclined staged gallery leading
to the deep well. Izborsk citizens took water there during a siege.

Very special amazing place socalled Slovenskiye Kluchi (Slavonian Springs)
is situated on the high lake shore not far from Izborsk. There are 12 springs
and each of them has its own name. For example, one is called «Maiden tears».
Spring water is icecold always even in hot summer. Healing power of the local
water is mentioned in many legends from the ancient time. According to those
legends even one drink of that water fills the person with energy.